What is a leading question?

• A. A question that offers multiple possible answers
• B. A question designed to guide someone to a specific answer
• C. A neutral question that tests knowledge
• D. A question that requires a simple yes or no response

Answer: (B)

A leading question is specifically crafted to steer someone's response in a particular direction, often implying a desired answer or suggesting the answer within the question itself. This type of question can subtly influence the respondent’s thinking or limit their options, making it more likely that they will agree with the implied response.

For example, asking, "Why do you believe that working late improves productivity?" suggests that the respondent should agree with the premise that working late does indeed improve productivity, instead of allowing them to express a different viewpoint. This format can be particularly persuasive in settings such as interviews, legal questioning, or surveys, where the intent is to elicit a predetermined response.

Neutral questions that test knowledge or offer multiple answers do not guide someone towards a specific answer and thus do not fit the definition of a leading question. Similarly, questions requiring a simple yes or no response do not inherently lead the respondent toward a particular conclusion or bias their answer. The crafting of the question itself is what makes it "leading," and option B captures that intent accurately.